Stars and Stripes A  History Activity About the Flag of the United States A Learning On-Line Learning Activity Page by Howard Taylor

. . . Just by counting the stars in our Flag since the first flag with thirteen stars in 1777, to our present fifty stars from 1959, you can see the growth of our country and learn how important the flag is in our patriotism and national pride.

When is a star added?
By law, a star is added to the U.S.A. flag on the Fourth of July following the admission of a State(s) to the Union.  Shown on our table on the "directions page"  are the 27 star fields and the state(s) bringing about these changes.  Also listed is the duration of time these flags were the "official" U.S.A. flag.  Many people believe the first official flag was the "Betsy Ross"...13 states in a circle.   But the first documented U.S.A. flag was the staggered star pattern shown.   "Artistic interpretation" of the earlier star patterns also resulted in many variations we are unable to illustrate here.  Whatever your reason for flying an "older" flag, it is important to note that no U.S.A. flag ever becomes obsolete.   Each is still a legal flag and is entitled to the same respect shown the current flag.  It is your choice to decide if one of these is appropriate for you to display.

In this special Patriotic Activity, see what you can learn about our flag.  Answer the questions and do the special project described at the end of the "Stars and Stripes